A New In-Class Experiment Demonstration System Based on Virtual Instrument Technology

In-class demonstration experiments give the real time validation or illumination about conceptual theory, especially in the science and engineering teaching progress of undergraduate education. This paper discusses the development and application of an new apparatus based on virtual instrument for in-class experiments demonstrations when the lecture topics need electronic test process. The apparatus is composed of modular circuits, data acquisition card, pc-camera and interface to multimedia computer, combined with the virtual instrument technology and specialty experiment content. It allows the instructor to carry out electronic solutions in real time using real physical devices during lecture rather than completely theoretical illation, which help most students to visualize concepts in the study pattern typically found for engineering students. In general the response was positive with students' recognition of the high value of in-class demonstrations and the apparatus.